Exploration of Atheism as a Diversity Issue and its Implications for Best Practice in Psychotherapy: Trajectories and Strengths

<p>The conceptualization of Atheism has transformed considerably over the past century, making a transition from the taboo to a new movement of outspoken activism underlined by a strong self-identification with systemic nonbelief and sense of pride. Psychological literature has only begun to reflect the larger societal changes in perception and value over the past decade. As such, research has yet to adequately examine Atheism from a cultural perspective, creating an injustice in the psychotherapist’s ability to properly understand and treat patients in a comprehensive manner. Through the examination of trajectories leading to an Atheistic belief set, the application of a strength-based lens, and the dispelling of inaccurate, mythical thought, best practice can be applied in providing psychotherapuetic services to individuals who, at their core, do not believe in the existence of God(s).</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Psy.D. Doctor of Clinical Psychology

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation - Public Access

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Clinical Psychology

Year dc:date.available

2019

Author dc:creator

• Lampert, Justin Michael

Contributors dc:contributor

• Eric Rosen
• Patricia Dixon

• atheism
• therapy
• treatment
• diversity
• cultural
• psychology
• Clinical Psychology

Repository record dc:identifier

https://digitalcommons.nl.edu/diss/366

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:digitalcommons.nl.edu:diss-1394